We usually only notice technology the most when it quits working. With hearing aids that’s especially true: To most people who use them, hearing aids are more than just a piece of technology; they’re a crucial lifeline to the rest of the world.
It’s both emotionally and physiologically vital to come up with solutions for broken hearing aids as quickly as possible. Troubleshooting can be a frustrating, risky process whether you’ve been wearing them for a week, a year, or decades. But there are some fairly easy measures you can try to get your hearing aid working properly again.
Avoiding Problems Before They Occurs
Hearing aids are no exception to the rule, like any other piece of technology, they need regular maintenance. Even though the casing may look simple and robust, the electronics inside can be incredibly sophisticated.
Due to this you have to keep them well maintained. As you’re wearing your hearing aids, there are some things you can do that will make taking care of them simpler.
Keeping Your Hearing Aids Clean is a Must
Your ears naturally and normally produce a certain amount of wax every day. And, the ear wax is, to a certain extent helpful for your ears. But it’s not so great for your hearing aids. To help improve the longevity of your device keep your hearing aids clean and clear of wax. In fact, a built-in wax filter comes with most hearing aids that should also be periodically cleaned.
Don’t Let Your Hearing Aids Get Wet
Electronics and moisture don’t do well together. And in spite of the best protection technology can produce, repeated exposure to moisture can eventually wear down the internal electronics of your hearing aids, reducing their performance.
This means that you should not wear your hearing aids in the shower or while swimming. Also, towel dry your hearing aids if they get wet. Don’t use a hair dryer because it can harm them.
Schedule Time With Professional Cleaners
Hearing aids are sensitive (and commonly expensive) technology, and as such, they call for specialized cleaning procedures. Even if you’re pretty rigorous about your own cleaning habits, there are just some things that can be better accomplished by a specialized cleaner.
That’s why it’s suggested that you take your hearing aids in to be cleaned every 4-6 months.
How to Troubleshoot Existing Issues
Even if your hearing aids are presently working, you will still be required to take preventative steps. But if you’re having issues, if your hearing aids aren’t working properly anymore, you’re probably more interested in some quick fixes.
If your hearing aids aren’t working properly, try one of the following steps:
- Inspect your hearing aid for wax or debris accumulate. Carefully wipe away any debris or wax you might find.
- Check your own ears. Sound from your hearing aid could be blocked by earwax buildup.
- Toggle between programs or change the settings. How you respond will depend on the model because each one is different in this regard.
- Even if your batteries are rechargeable they will periodically need to be replaced.
- Reboot the device (turn it off and turn it back on). This will correct the problem in some cases.
- Adjust the volume. There will either be a volume dial on the hearing aid or a remote you can use for this. Try to do both if you have the option with your hearing aid.
- Check for corrosion or loose wiring in the battery compartment. If you see any corrosion, you can try carefully cleaning it away, but significant damage will have to be repaired professionally.
- Take a good look at your hearing aids for obvious signs of damage, such as blemishes or cracks. Such damage could mean the hearing aid needs to be repaired.
It’s likely that you will have to get the device fixed by a professional if you want it back to peak condition if none of these options help.
What if That Doesn’t Fix My Hearing Aids?
You will likely have two options if you’ve tried to troubleshoot your hearing aid and it still doesn’t work: you either need to buy a new pair or send them in for repair. Which choice works better for you will vary depending on your situation, the age of your hearing aids, and other factors.
If your hearing aids aren’t working well right now, take the time to try some troubleshooting. A discussion with your hearing professional to find a solution is the next step if that doesn’t help. To find a solution make your appointment right away.